"Harry Potter"

Analytical Essay # 59407

English > Analysis
Literature > English

"Harry Potter"

An analysis of moral and social commentary in J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" novels.

3,355 words () | 3 sources | MLA | 2004 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how the "Harry Potter" series depicts many social and moral situations, which have been criticized and praised in many forums. It attempts to show how, although accused of sexism and familial amorality, "Harry Potter" appeals to readers of all ages and lifestyles by providing moral and social commentary on issues such as gender, family and heroism in a fusion of literary genres.

From the Paper:

"Many critics within the area of gender studies have attacked Harry Potter as sexist. In the article "Blue Wizards and Pink Witches: Representations of Gender Identity and Power," Elizabeth E. Heilman describes the gender inequality she feels is present in the books. Heilman suggests that as soon as Hermione's character is introduced, the reader is to realize she belongs to a lower class of witches - those who do not have magic in their blood, referred to as Muggle-born, or the more insulting term, Mudblood. Despite Hermione's Muggle family, she proves to be the top student in the class. She is established as both a bookworm and a know-it-all."